We arrived in Espiritu Santo in the early morning under slightly overcast skies. Pacific swallows surrounded the ship, welcoming us to Vanuatu. The majority of us visited the World War II Museum in Luganville, which gave us an informative depiction of the S.S. Coolidge, which rests deep underwater. The S.S. Coolidge also got a visit from our divers and undersea specialist. In the afternoon, we had the great privilege of witnessing the women from Banks Island as they demonstrated their incredible water music. This was followed by a magical and cleansing visit to the Matevulu Blue Hole. Everyone rejoiced in the refreshingly cool and stunningly fresh blue water. What a beautiful first day in Vanuatu!
- Daily Expedition Reports
- 18 Feb 2024
Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, 2/18/2024, National Geographic Orion
- Aboard the National Geographic Orion
- French Polynesia & Pacific Islands
Karen Velas, Naturalist
Karen Velas cares deeply about protecting the environment and its wildlife. Over the last 15 years, she has been involved with numerous conservation projects, including working as the Lead Project Coordinator on the California Condor Project with Th...
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Fiji and Beyond: Rites and Relics of the Pacific
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